Editor,

I am supporting Helen Price Johnson’s candidacy for state Senator and encourage others to do so as well. Helen is a leader with extraordinary qualities. She is a person of vision with the work ethic to see that ideas are strategic, practical, well-conceived, and seen through to completion.

As a school board member and board president Helen encouraged and supported us in the important work of education in the South Whidbey School District. She helped us create a quality vision for the students, staff, and parents of the district. During her terms the district board was named a School Board of the Year by the Washington State School Directors.

Price Johnson is an excellent listener, tough negotiator, intelligent thinker, and humble but determined public servant. She was always a steady hand on the controls during challenging times. The National Blue-Ribbon High School recognition award was presented to South Whidbey High School during her term.

As Island County Commissioner she was a mentor and supporter to those of us who were mayors in Island County. She brought with her to the Commission a background in managing a retail business and also as the co-owner with her husband, Dave, of a highly respected construction company. She was particularly supportive of the Island County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition, first responders, and the Whidbey Veterans Resource Center.

Price Johnson will be an excellent state senator.

Fred McCarthy, Ed.D.

Former school superintendent, South Whidbey School District,

former mayor, city of Langley